Spotlight

Meet DJ B.: Bringing Personality, Positivity & Passion to Summerwood

For DJ B., a career change was about finding something new while still doing what he loves most: connecting with people. After 10 years as a hairstylist, DJ was ready for a fresh start and found the perfect fit at Summerwood!

“I think I just needed something new in my life,” DJ says. “It was getting a little stagnant, and I’m not a fan of things leveling out.”

“Summerwood rules the world!”
– DJ B., Team Member

Before joining our Philadelphia, PA Taco Bell as a team member, DJ worked in the restaurant industry while earning his cosmetology license. When he made the move to our Taco Bell, he found that many of the skills he’d built behind the salon chair transferred to his new role.

“Whether I’m giving someone a nice haircut for them to go to a wedding or they’re stopping here for a snack before a road trip, I just like being able to help people out in any way that I can,” he shares.

Creating Connections One Guest at a Time

Since joining Summerwood nearly two years ago, DJ has built relationships with the regulars. For him, the best part of the job is getting to know the people behind the orders.

One guest in particular became a familiar face. She’d stop by every day and order the same meal: three Double Stacked Tacos with seven Diablo packets. Eventually, DJ knew exactly what to punch in before the guest even reached the counter!

“I could hear her voice, and I had everything ready already,” DJ says.

Finding Community at Summerwood

DJ moved to the area four years ago to be closer to his parents. In fact, he visited the Taco Bell where he now works before ever becoming a team member, making his journey to Summerwood feel even more special.

When his restaurant temporarily closed for a remodel, DJ and his teammates were split between nearby locations. But when it was time to return, he was excited to reunite with his original team.

For DJ, the team environment is one of the biggest reasons he enjoys coming to work. He makes an effort to welcome new team members and believes kindness can make a difference.

“What I try to do when people come in that are new is go up to them and introduce myself,” DJ says. 

“Our managers are very nice and very understanding, so if you have anything going on, they are very keen to help.”
– DJ B., Team Member

Dreaming Big for the Future

DJ’s passion for people and leadership has him looking toward the future. One day, he hopes to open his own Taco Bell restaurant as part of the franchise system.

Until then, he’s focused on continuing to support his team here at Summerwood and make every guest interaction count!